Manipur Government Prioritizes Rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons

The Manipur government has prioritized the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) following ethnic violence that has displaced thousands. With a comprehensive resettlement plan in place, the government is focusing on safety, education, and livelihood opportunities for affected families. The phased approach to resettlement aims to address the complex needs of IDPs while ensuring long-term stability. Regular engagement with community representatives is being maintained to rebuild trust and address grievances. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to treating IDP resettlement as an ongoing humanitarian mission rather than a one-time effort.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 15, 2026, 13:12 IST

Government's Commitment to IDP Resettlement

Imphal, Jan 15: The government of Manipur has declared that the rehabilitation and resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) is its foremost humanitarian concern. Comprehensive security evaluations are currently being conducted at all proposed resettlement locations to ensure long-term safety and stability.

In a communication directed to IDP representatives and the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, Special Secretary (Home) A Subash Singh emphasized that the resettlement process depends on several interconnected factors. These include the current security landscape, the readiness of resettlement sites, land availability, funding flow, climatic conditions, and the feasibility of livelihoods.

“The rehabilitation and resettlement of IDPs is our top humanitarian priority. This process is being carried out in a phased, adaptable, and practical manner rather than as a strict, one-off, deadline-driven initiative,” the letter indicated.

Since May 2023, Manipur has experienced ongoing ethnic strife, particularly between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in over 260 fatalities and displacing tens of thousands. This unrest has forced many individuals to reside in relief camps throughout the state.

The government has devised a detailed resettlement strategy aimed at assisting approximately 60,000 displaced individuals through various central and state initiatives.

This rehabilitation framework extends beyond simple physical relocation, focusing on education, job opportunities, and the overall welfare of displaced families.

As per the letter, the phased resettlement has commenced under a ₹523-crore Rehabilitation and Resettlement package outlined in the Manipur Budget for 2025–26. The first phase targets families whose homes were partially damaged during the unrest.

The second phase involves families receiving permanent housing under the PMAY-G (Special Package) within their respective districts.

The third phase, deemed the most challenging, entails inter-district relocation between valley and hill areas. This phase necessitates improved coordination among civil authorities, security forces, and local stakeholders, along with significant infrastructure development and strong security measures.

The government stated that district commissioners, security personnel, and community representatives are collaboratively planning the resettlement strategies.

Security barracks and deployment infrastructure are being integrated with housing projects, ensuring that resettlement occurs only in regions where long-term peace and safety can be reasonably guaranteed.

Reaffirming its dedication, the government noted that IDP resettlement is viewed as an ongoing humanitarian mission rather than a one-time administrative task.

Regular interactions with community representatives are being maintained to address concerns, rebuild trust, and restore dignity to those affected by the violence.

This assurance comes amidst ongoing worries among IDPs regarding safety, livelihood, and the speed of rehabilitation in a state still recovering from one of its most severe internal conflicts in recent history.